10 Surefire Ways to Save Energy and Stay Warm This Winter

by Lindsay Hutton

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average American household will spend more than $1,600 on home utility bills in 2008. What's even more discouraging is that a large portion of that energy will be wasted. With a worsening economy and rising energy costs, many people are looking to save a few dollars wherever they can. We've come up with a list of the top 10 ways to save money (and energy) this winter.

Turn Down Your Thermostat

For every degree you lower your thermostat in the 60-70 degree range, you save about 5% on heating costs. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the day and evening, and 55 degrees at night and when you are leaving home for an extended amount of time. By setting the thermostat lower while sleeping or away, you can save anywhere from 5-20% on heating costs. Along the same lines, lower your hot water temperature. Set the water heater to the normal setting, or 120 degrees Fahrenheit. (Check the owner's manual for your dishwasher to see whether it requires a higher setting.)

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